Halloween Candy Safety

Can you believe that we're already nearing the end of October? With that comes Halloween! It is important to keep your pet safe this holiday season- and Halloween is no exception.

As a general rule of thumb, no Halloween candy (or any candy really) should be considered safe for dogs or cats. All human sweets should be kept well out of reach of pets. Although we don't recommend you giving your pet any candy, there are five candies that you need to look out for, that if ingested can be toxic.

1. Chocolate

If you suspect your pet has snuck a chocolate bar (or two), watch for these key symptoms:

• Stomach issues

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Increased heart rate

• Restlessness or hyperactivity

If you believe your pet has consumed chocolate, please call us immediately. Provide as much detail as possible about the type and amount of chocolate ingested.

2. Raisins

Raisins might not be the first candy that comes to mind, but they're often given to kids as a healthier treat. While nutritious for humans, raisins are highly toxic to dogs and cats. Ingesting raisins can lead to kidney failure and may be fatal. Symptoms of raisin toxicity include:

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Diarrhea

• Lethargy

There’s no established toxic dose for raisins, and sensitivity can vary among pets. If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten raisins, contact your veterinarian right away.

3. Xylitol

Xylitol isn’t a candy brand you’ll find in your children’s Halloween haul, but it’s an ingredient in many sweets. It’s commonly found in sugar-free gum, mints, hard candies, and even peanut butter.

4. Lollipops

Lollipops are not only made with potentially harmful ingredients (like chocolate or xylitol), but their stick holders also present a choking hazard and can cause internal injuries.

5. Candy Corn

Candy corn is a Halloween favorite, but it deserves caution. Many varieties contain xylitol, and the high sugar content, along with food coloring and corn syrup, makes it unsafe for pets. Keep these treats out of reach this holiday season.

We hope you and your families have a safe and happy Halloween!